Targeting FBXL5 to induce ferroptosis and reverse oxaliplatin resistance in iron-rich colorectal cancer

Oxaliplatin resistance remains a major challenge in colorectal cancer (CRC) treatment. We investigated the FBXL5/IREB2/TFRC axis in ferroptosis-mediated resistance reversal. Bioinformatics analysis identified IREB2 as co-expressed in oxaliplatin resistance and ferroptosis pathways. Clinical samples revealed elevated iron metabolism in resistant CRC tissues. In vitro, FBXL5 knockdown in oxaliplatin-resistant cells (HCT-116/OXA) upregulated IREB2/TFRC, increased Fe²⁺/MDA, and reduced viability/proliferation. Combining oxaliplatin with ferroptosis inducer Erastin enhanced cell death, reversed by ferroptosis inhibitor Ferrostatin-1. Our findings demonstrate that targeting FBXL5 disrupts iron homeostasis, triggers ferroptosis, and overcomes oxaliplatin resistance in CRC.